The true history of Puerto Rico is reflected in our literature, art, music, architecture and in our spirit. You can see it everywhere, from our oldest cities to our newest urban developments. Puerto Rico is many, many things. We hope you will enjoy discovering a few of them.
Its terrain is among the most varied in the region; rugged mountains rise in the middle, quiet beaches edge the northern and eastern shores (which are lapped by the Atlantic Ocean) while in parts of the southwest, beaches give way to steep cliffs that plummet into the Caribbean Sea.
What is Puerto Rico? It is an Island teeming with beauty and vitality. Some of it is Spanish, some Indian, some African and some...something else. but somehow it all blends together into a culture that you will find fascinating and one-of-a-kind.
There is no place quite like a tropical volcanic Island and no Island in the Caribbean quite like Puerto Rico. The geography of the Island is very unusual, as it encompasses distinctly different kinds of topography and microclimates in a relatively small area.
A rugged mountain range runs across the center from east to west, which often prevents rain clouds from passing to the south. The north side of the Island is covered by dense vegetation, karst formations and rushing streams, while, the south side is sun-toasted terrain, home to tropical dry forests and many species of exotic birds. Puerto Rico is only about 100 miles long and 35 miles wide, so its most distant points are only a three-hour drive apart. It also means that just about every tropical landscape in existence is a short trip from wherever you happen to be!
The confluence of these three cultures, Indian, Spanish and African, formed the Puerto Rican character. Yet Puerto Rico has been a part of the United States since 1898 and Puerto Ricans have been U.S. citizens since 1917. This close relationship with the world's most powerful nation has also left its mark.
It is a fascinating combination of elements that gives the Island its distinctive character. Here you will find cities and towns that are living museums of Spanish colonial architecture, yet bustling with activity. You can see the remains of villages more than a thousand years old. You can hear music that captures the tempo of the island or echoes the world. You can even watch NASA scientists listening for signs of intelligent life in the universe!
Stroll through the Spanish archways of Old San Juan, a walled 17th-century city. Hike through a lush rain forest. Swing your hips to the beat of salsa at a beach party. Then imagine setting off bells and lights when you hit it big at the casino.
Puerto Rico is a fascinating land of contrasts. This Caribbean Island combines dreamy beaches with sizzling nightlife. Its Spanish roots are evident in its Latin passion, distinctive architecture and traditional warmth and hospitality. Yet you'll also find big-name entertainment, upscale hotels, fine service and top-notch facilities for almost every sport -- except snow skiing.
Spanish remains the official language -- and you'll have fun learning a few phrases -- but English is widely spoken. And don't worry about changing money, having passports or paying customs duty on your purchases when you return to the U.S.; Puerto Rico is a part of the United States.
The seaside city of San Juan includes several distinct areas. Isla Verde, with its long stretch of white-sand beach just minutes from the airport, is packed with restaurants, discos, sports and entertainment. The Condado area is the true action hub, a glittering strip of high-rise hotels and condominiums, trendy boutiques, art galleries, nightclubs and restaurants that backs a long strand of some of the liveliest beachfront in the Caribbean. Ashford Avenue offers miles of shopping, eating, dancing or casino - hopping. In Old San Juan you'll find the ultimate in sightseeing - and some of the best shopping and night spots line the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan.
Outside of San Juan, "en la Isla", as islanders say, you'll find upscale resort areas with championship golf courses, casinos and a variety of dining options, as well as secluded beaches and intimate inns. Drive across the Panoramic Route, which winds through the beautiful mountainous region of the Cordillera Central, to discover forest reserves, rural mountain towns and agricultural areas. Don't miss a visit to the rain forest of El Yunque, part of the U.S. National Forest System. Nearby, Luquillo Beach, a white-sand strand shaded by majestic palm trees, is acclaimed as one of the Island's finest.
Looking for a complete hideaway Island experience? Catch the ferry in the port of Fajardo to either Culebra or Vieques, Puerto Rico's offshore Islands. Both are known for their secluded beaches, coral reefs, fresh seafood and rustic ambience. While on Vieques, pick a moonless night for a boat trip to the Phosphorescent Bay, where millions of luminescent particles in the water take on a neon-like glow when disturbed by movement.
Text compliments of gotopuertorico.com
